Punch Excision for Acne Scars in Seoul

Punch Excision for Acne Scars explained

Punch excision is a dermatology procedure for deep, narrow acne scars, especially ice pick and small boxcar scars. It is often the first step in a scar plan, before laser resurfacing or subcision.

How Punch Excision for Acne Scars works

The doctor numbs the area with local anaesthetic, then uses a round punch tool slightly larger than the scar to remove it. The edges are closed with one or two fine stitches, turning a deep pit into a small flat line. A related method, punch elevation, lifts the base of a scar instead of removing it. Lasers such as fractional CO2 are often used 4–8 weeks later to blend the area.

Who Punch Excision for Acne Scars is for

Ice pick acne scars
Narrow, deep boxcar scars
A small number of very deep scars
Scars that did not improve with laser alone

Who should avoid Punch Excision for Acne Scars

Active acne in the area
Wide, shallow rolling scars, which suit subcision better
People prone to keloids or raised scars
Recent isotretinoin use, unless the doctor approves
Bleeding disorders or blood thinners without doctor review

What happens at the appointment

Doctor assessment and marking of suitable scars
Cleaning and local anaesthetic injection
Scars removed with a punch tool
Edges closed with fine stitches or skin glue
Dressing applied; stitch removal booked in 5–7 days

Aftercare and flying home

Keep stitches clean and dry for the first 24–48 hours
Apply the ointment the clinic gives you
Avoid makeup on the stitches until they are removed
Use sunscreen strictly for several months to prevent dark marks
Stay in Seoul until stitches are removed, or arrange removal at home

Side effects and risks

Swelling, redness and small bruises for several days
A visible line or mark that fades over months
Darker marks if the area gets sun
Rarely, infection, wound opening or a raised scar

How much does Punch Excision for Acne Scars cost in Seoul?

₩50,000–₩200,000 per scar (about US$37–150 per scar) — Price is usually per scar and depends on scar size and number, whether stitches or glue are used, and whether laser follow-up is in a package. Clinics often price a full scar plan together. All prices are estimates and change between clinics.

Why get Punch Excision for Acne Scars in Korea?

Seoul dermatology clinics treat acne scars in high volume and commonly combine punch techniques, subcision and laser in one plan. Costs are usually lower than in many Western cities.

Frequently asked questions

How much does punch excision for acne scars cost in Seoul?

Punch excision in Seoul usually costs about ₩50,000–₩200,000 per scar. A full plan with laser follow-up costs more.

Does punch excision hurt?

The local anaesthetic injection stings briefly, then the area is numb. It may feel sore for a day or two afterwards.

Is punch excision permanent?

Yes, the removed scar does not come back. It is replaced by a small line that usually fades, and laser can blend it further.

When can I fly after punch excision?

You can fly with stitches in, but it is best to stay until they are removed after 5–7 days. If you leave earlier, arrange stitch removal at home.

What are the risks of punch excision?

Common effects are swelling, bruising and a fine line. Rarely, there can be infection, wound opening or a raised scar.

Is punch excision or TCA CROSS better for ice pick scars?

TCA CROSS suits many small, narrow scars and has less downtime. Punch excision is often better for a few very deep or wider scars. A doctor may combine both.